Hot Shot Insurance Explained: Required vs Broker-Required Coverage
Federal law requires for-hire interstate hot shot carriers to carry at least $750,000 public liability for general freight when the rig is rated 10,001 lb or more. Your insurer files proof with FMCSA. Cargo, physical damage and other coverages usually come from broker contracts or lenders, not federal rules.
By TruckerStack Editorial, AK Digital Marketing LLC · Reviewed against eCFR and FMCSA pages on 2026-11-04 · Editorial policy
How we compare
Disclosure: TruckerStack has no affiliate agreements with any provider on this page today. If that changes, those links will be labeled “sponsored” and will not change our criteria or order. Facts are quoted from the sources linked next to them, as of 2026-11-04. Confirm everything in the provider's written contract.
We compare coverages, not insurers, because quotes depend on driver history, equipment, radius and state.
Coverage by coverage
| Coverage | Required by | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Primary auto liability | FMCSA: $750,000 minimum, general freight (387.9) | Insurer files proof electronically; higher limits often required by brokers |
| Motor truck cargo | Broker/shipper contracts (not federal for general freight) | Check exclusions: unattended vehicle, specific commodities |
| Physical damage | Lender or lease, if financed | Covers your truck and trailer |
| Non-trucking liability | Lease agreements | For leased-on operators when not under dispatch |
| General liability | Some shippers and facilities | Premises/operations claims |
| Occupational accident | Some contracts, for contractors | Alternative to workers' comp for owner-operators |
Comparing quotes fairly
- Same limits and deductibles on every quote.
- Confirm the insurer will make the FMCSA filing and how fast.
- Ask for the cargo exclusions list.
- Ask about radius and listed-driver rules.
- Check status with the FMCSA L&I record after binding, or with our lookup.
Federal minimums table: insurance minimums.
FAQ
What is the minimum insurance for hot shot?
$750,000 public liability for for-hire interstate general freight in vehicles or combinations rated 10,001 lb or more (49 CFR 387.9).
Is cargo insurance federally required?
Not for general freight. Brokers and shippers usually require it by contract; household goods carriers have separate cargo rules.
Why does my lookup show insurance on file?
Insurers file proof of liability coverage with FMCSA. Our lookup reads the BIPD amount on file from FMCSA open data.